How does an industry novice score a dream position with the NBA?
Follow me to find out.
As a recent sports management graduate from Robert Morris University, I just began an inside sales position with the Minnesota Timberwolves. I want to share my experiences and show students and grads how to succeed in college, and in the professional sports industry.

Friday, January 14, 2011

Hey Everyone! Sorry it's taken me so long to write this....crazyness up here in the Twin Cities!

It's hard to believe I graduated from RMU only two weeks ago. A lot has happened since December 17th. My last semester was very busy due in part to having my capstone courses in marketing and sport management and searching for a job in my career field at the same time. Fortunately by completing 8 internships throughout college, volunteering many many hours, and building professional relationships, I was able to land an entry-level position with the Minnesota Timberwolves on their Inside Sales team.

My parents and I packed their Town & Country van and my Ford Explorer for our trip to Minneapolis. It seems like we had been packing for the whole month of December. We left for Minneapolis on Saturday, January 1 at roughly 1:00 pm, got to Chicago late around 12:00 pm, left Sunday morning at 10:00 am and arrived in Minneapolis around 6:00 pm that evening.

My first day with the Timberwoles was the day after we arrived in town, Monday, January 3. The day consisted of an orientation of the office and a nice welcoming by the team president and owner. Throughout the week, I was introduced to most of the Timberwolves employees. I started learning the ticket packages (season tickets, group tickets, and single game tickets) and continued researching the team and getting adjusted to the two software programs that we use which include CRM and Archtics.

I started making calls this week which was awesome! I've had some great conversations with people..actually spoke with a few people who were from North Hills, PA. I am still looking for my first sale so let's hope that happens soon. I worked a total of four games these past two weeks. I am always looking forward to the games because that is when we have the opportunity to thank our clients for coming out to the games. I have been passing out thank-you cards which include vouchers for two free tickets. However, the person must contact me to redeem the vouchers. This is a creative way for me to gain clients.

We have a big game this weekend (tomorrow) which features one of the best teams in the NBA, the Orlando Magic. Only two weeks in as a Ticket Sales Associate with the Minnesota Timberwolves and I am already feeling like a season verteran. I look forward to staying in touch and sharing more of my experiences here in Minnesota... it is going to be a great rest of the season. Go Wolves!